A few simple steps can avoid the failure of development projects in the historic environment - says 'Heritage Works', a publication written by English Heritage, the British Property Federation, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Drivers Jonas.
'Heritage Works' is the first publication of its kind to combine the expertise of the propety and conservation sectors and is a practical step-by-step guide for developers, owners, practitioners or community groups for creating successful heritage-led regeneration projects.
By identifying common pitfalls and ways of overcoming them, and including links to more than 30 other information sources, it is designed to be a one-stop reference document or checklist for regeneration in the historic environment.
Also available is the two-page supplement 'Heritage Works in the Thames Gateway', launched at the Thames Gateway Forum 2008. Heritage Works and its Thames Gateway supplement are available free from English Heritage Customer Services on 0870 333 1181 or as a PDF.
'Heritage Works' has features such as a chart for navigating listed building consent and lists of issues to consider when surveying. It also includes information on issues such as breaking cycles of decline, concept development, economic benefits, using characterisation, VAT, fund-raising, the public realm and management plans.
Amongst comprehensive advice given for all stages of regeneration, three preliminary actions are critical to success:
- Understand the heritage assets in question. Early consultation with English Heritage and the local planning authority is crucial for all parties to gain a full understanding of the conservation value of the asset, the project, its costs and the opportunities. Consultation provides certainty for developers by avoiding surprise problems later in the process and helping all parties to reach early agreement.
- Find a viable economic use. This must support the initial refurbishment, provide the owner or developer with a reasonable return on their investment and also generate enough income for the long-term maintenance of the building.
- Pay the right price for the asset. Purchasers and owners should make sure they pay a price that reflects full knowledge of the conservation constraints and realistic repair costs. It is vital at this stage to work with and get the advice of experienced specialists.
The publication was researched and written by Drivers Jonas with funding and advice provided by English Heritage, the BPF and RICS.
The full research document is available from www.driversjonas.com. A free hard copy of the summary document 'Heritage Works' is available from English Heritage on 0870 333 1181 or you can download the PDF from this page.
